Browning’s Use of Yondr Pouches
Browning’s Yondr pouch policy was developed over the summer to create a phone-free school environment. Students lock their phone in the pouches and unlock it when they go out for lunch or leave school at the end of the day.
To address growing concerns over student distraction and smartphone usage, Browning has recently introduced Yondr pouches as a promising solution.
At a time when the distractions on smartphones for students have increased tremendously, schools have sought ways to limit this interruption in learning. To start the 2023-2024 school year, Browning has implemented the use of Yondr pouches as a potential solution. Yondr pouches allow students to keep their phones physically on them without having distractions. Students can unlock the phones using its magnet system that is set up in the lobby.
“There’s research that shows numbers of students performing better without their phones, and that it even correlates with well-being. Although we can’t control the environment outside of school, we decided to implement the pouches within the red doors,” said Aaron Grill, Director of Innovation and Technology.
Numerous benefits come along with Yondr pouches, which create a more focused learning environment. Without smartphones, students can immerse themselves in lessons and engage fully in discussions with total concentration. Additionally, the lack of technology improves relationships between students and faculty, as they are more likely to talk to one another.
Some challenges come with the pouches, including privacy concerns and emergencies. Browning has ensured that additional magnets are situated in specific offices, so there are plenty of locations where students can access their phones if needed.
“Although at first, I disliked the idea of not being able to use my phone, I’ve grown to appreciate that it enables me to work more productively and meaningfully during the school day,” said Alex T. ‘25.
Browning has unique rules for different grade levels. In the upper school, students use the Yondr pouches that contain a QR code that allows them to sign in and out of school. In middle school, students place their phones in a phone box designated to their homeroom. They can retrieve their phones after the end of the school day.
Numerous other private schools in the city have implemented the Yondr pouches, including Lycée Français De New York. It will continue to become frequently used in a bunch of school environments.
Depending on new technology, the Yondr pouches are here to stay. There is a plan to continue to use the pouches in the following years.
Mr. Grill shares his input on the most fundamental aspect of the pouches: “I think the main aspect is not having your phone on you. It promotes academic success while preventing issues about walking privileges without going to the dean’s office. Students remain accountable and more focused.”
Yondr pouches have changed the social structure at Browning and have already had an impact in creating a phone-free environment to begin the school year.